SAN RAFAEL, California—RestoringVision, the optical 501(c)(3)non-profit organization that has provided the gift of sight to over 12 million people in 135 impoverished countries, celebrated 15 years of business on Oct. 2. Through more than 1,400 organizations, non-profit partners, corporate sponsors, individual donors and supporters, RestoringVision plans to help 20 million people by 2020 through their distribution of new reading glasses for the disadvantaged around the world. RestoringVision was founded by Mark Sachs in 2003. He was inspired to start RestoringVision after “a life changing experience” with LensCrafters in Mexico where people with impaired vision travel miles to seek clinical help.

Sachs stated, “I’m humbled and extremely pleased to see RestoringVision celebrate 15 years of service to people in developing countries. The work of our partners in the field and our dedicated team members, along with the generous contributions from our donors and sponsors, have helped us reach this milestone. I’m not surprised we made it to 15 years, but the scale of the impact we have had is amazing!”

“As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we also look towards a bright future for RestoringVision,” said Pelin Munis, executive director of the organization. “We are thrilled that our cause to bring clear vision to people living in impoverished communities is gaining much needed attention and traction. Every day, more and more optical industry companies, colleagues, and individual supporters are stepping forward to help make this happen. I’m confident that together we will reach our goal and help many more millions of people in need.”

To get involved with RestoringVision, contact them at info@restoringvision.org.